Tools for fine detailing

I am looking to improve my skills and I am wondering if there are certain tools out there I might be overlooking.

I have some hobby files, but they leave a very rough finish. Other than sanding sticks and the normal micro mesh and stuff, are there any files that are super fine? I am looking for something rigid like a file, but in a very fine finish, that would leave the surface ready for primer.

any other tools I might be able to use?

I am having trouble getting a nice finish in tight corners and stuff, i usually end up sanding too much of the peripheral areas

I'm almost certain I've seen sanding sticks made just for tight areas. In fact, they might even be made by Micromesh

I've just had these turn up in the mail today, I haven't had a chance to use them but they look and feel pretty good

I'm not sure how fine the grit goes tho, I got some 320 grit it s quite rough tho

Got mine from ebay they were $15 Australian posted

http://www.scalemodellingnow.com/hn-toolsandmaterials-albionalloys-plasticsandingneedles

I've just had these turn up in the mail today, I haven't had a chance to use them but they look and feel pretty good

I'm not sure how fine the grit goes tho, I got some 320 grit it s quite rough tho

Got mine from ebay they were $15 Australian posted

http://www.scalemodellingnow.com/hn-toolsandmaterials-albionalloys-plasticsandingneedles


You know what, I have some of those. I don't care for them that much. they do help in some situations though.

The most useful, most important tool that I can recommend for detail work is a set of measuring calipers. (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=484569)

The second is a pile of reference material (or a fast internet connection).

Beyond that, detailing tools scan be anything- from a set of good tweezers and a magnifying visor to a small machine shop.

What are you wanting to make?

If files were too fine textured they would clog very quickly. I use needle files for rough shaping. Yes, They get clogged. I unclog my files with a brass wire toothbrush and occasionally an old hobby knife blade. I use steel wool wrapped around a round toothpick (for white metal) or wet/dry sandpaper (for resin) CA'd to a flat toothpick for final polishing before primer.

Disclaimer: Everyone has a different way that works for them. This is just what works for me.

I hadn't thought of steel wool, i will definitely try that.

I'm looking for stuff (like the steel wool) to sand and detail/shape better in tight areas. Basically just picking everyone's brain to see if there is something I am overlooking. I have learned a lot on this forum. Using brass and steel rod to make hood struts, shock bodies, etc. I'm always looking for new tricks to utilize.

I have a set of calipers in the garage, i can use them on the bench as well.

I end up making dozens of different sanding sticks with all builds. Some fat, some skinny, flat toothpicks, round toothpicks,popsicle sticks,ect... Whatever shape & grit the job calls for.

I end up making dozens of different sanding sticks with all builds. Some fat, some skinny, flat toothpicks, round toothpicks,popsicle sticks,ect... Whatever shape & grit the job calls for.


This seems like the road I'll have to take.

I have a 360 Modena I butchered the paint job on. The plastic is crazed and I am having a hard time getting in the side intakes to smooth everything out.

this is the type of stuff I am wondering about

http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/image/10248598b/30/1